HAIKU versus MOKU

'Moku' is a brand-new term in the world of poetry. This term was first coined by poet and writer Ana Elsner.

'Moku' is short for 'Modified haiku'. It was originally used to describe Elsner's own characteristic 3 liners which are based on haiku but do not conform to the traditional 17 syllable format.

Contemporary poet Ana Elsner further breaks with haiku tradition in that her imagery is not necessarily based on nature. Instead, her Moku often treat with urban situations, or shine the spotlight on a specific character or state-of-mind.

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MOKU NUMBER TEN


this baleful time of keening

ghostly alchemy of our deferred grief

glaciers weep


© Ana Elsner

(reprinted by permission)

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Read another Moku

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April 2007 Featured Poet: Ana Elsner

The San Francisco Public Library presents,

Ana Elsner, Poet, Author and Translator

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In honor of National Poetry Month Ana Elsner will read from her poems on the state of affairs in contemporary America

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Parks Branch, 1833 Page Street, SF on Tuesday, April 10, 2007, at 7 PM.

"The poet Ana Elsner contributes a unique new voice of personal insight and of literary significance to modern American poetry." - Nina Feday, Librarian,retired

After the reading there will be a poetry open mic.

- Click to see Ana Elsner's event listing at Poets.org, The Academy of American Poets -

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All programs at the Library are free.

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[Related: Ana Elsner - reading and book signing]

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